Astrology of Today – May 17, 2016

The Moon is waxing and in its First Quarter phase until 2:27 PM / the Moon is waxing and in its Waxing Gibbous phase from 2:27 PM forward.

A First Quarter Moon occurred on the 13th, and a Full Moon will occur on May 21st.

Mercury is retrograde (Mercury is retrograde from April 28-May 22).

Mars is retrograde (Mars is retrograde from April 17-June 29).

Times are EDT

Horoscopes

Aries

Aries

The Moon continues to transit your partnership sector all day today and tomorrow, dear Aries. This is a time of the lunar month for considering areas of your life that require more balance, as well as your needs for companionship. It’s generally a good time for making compromises and small changes in order to better accommodate the needs and plans of people you care about. Despite possible worries about income this morning, the day is good for realistic thinking. You are considering the practical side of making your relationships, and your life in general, run more smoothly.

Taurus

Taurus

There is continued focus on your daily affairs, work, routines, and health today, dear Taurus, and this will follow you into tomorrow as the Moon pays its monthly visit to your solar sixth house. There can be an emphasis on service, organization, and routine today. The Moon finds support in Saturn, and this boosts your ability to prioritize and meet responsibilities with a good attitude. You are rather content, for now, to be working under the radar as you need the time and space to get everything you want to accomplish done. Responsibilities are more readily accepted today.

Gemini

Gemini

This is a good day for relating well with others, dear Gemini, not in an especially flashy way, but with mutual respect firmly in place. In fact, you’re attracting others by showing your reliable and dependable qualities right now. Even so, this can be a fine time to amuse yourself or to pour your energies into a creative project, hobby, or pastime. There can be focus on organizing and structuring activities nonetheless, and you can be very productive, even in your “play” time. You are looking for some kind of proof that your efforts are worthwhile, and this draws you to the practical side of things.

Cancer

Cancer

The Moon transits your home and family sector all day, dear Cancer, stimulating your need to connect or reconnect with your emotional core and/or your family or close loved ones. It’s a brief but helpful transit that reminds you of the importance of finding your emotional center and your very real need to feel comfortable and safe. This can be thought of as a “checkpoint” of sorts. The Moon’s easy connection to Saturn in your work and health sector points to benefits from channeling some of your energy into getting organized and establishing better routines. There is also comfortable energy for relating to a partner.

Leo

Leo

The Moon is in your communications sector all day, dear Leo, stimulating your curiosity. This can motivate you — more than usual — to connect, learn, and venture out and about. This can be refreshing after days of increased focus on your practical affairs, as variety is craved now. A good relationship between the Moon and Saturn today points to comfort with rules and responsibilities, and for you, it’s likely to motivate you to work on creative or communications projects, particularly in areas of design and structure or organization. It’s also a good time to think up good business strategies, particularly along promotional lines.

Virgo

Virgo

This is a potentially strong day for getting your bearings, dear Virgo, with the Moon in your stable solar second house in pleasant relationship with Saturn in your sector of home and family. It’s a good time for coming up with practical ideas for improving domestic and financial affairs, as well as for finding ways to make yourself feel more secure and safe. Taking care of dependents can also be in focus and enjoyable. Emotional intelligence is with you today, and your patience and foresight can benefit you in most areas of life.

Libra

Libra

Today and tomorrow, the Moon is in your sign all day, dear Libra. Emotional needs tend to be in the foreground, and while there is a temptation to fill every whim, Saturn’s connection to the Moon today can help round you out and ground you, reminding you that sustained effort pays off most. Today is good for bringing more structure to your daily life and to your projects, although you’ll want to leave some room for spontaneity. You may be asked for advice or turned to as an authority on a matter. Mentoring and guiding others can be satisfying, and you tend to learn something as you do – organizing your thoughts well enough to share them benefits you as well as others.

Scorpio

Scorpio

You are better able to combine practical vision with intuition today, dear Scorpio, making it a good time to come up with strong plans and strategies, along both material and emotional lines. Recognition for past accomplishments could come now, or you may be drawing on past experience and wisdom in order to solve practical problems today. The Moon is in your soul sector all day today and tomorrow, and you’re inclined to observe more than participate. It’s an important time for healing through rest and a healthy attitude towards letting go of those things that are dragging you down.

Sagittarius

Sagittarius

There is continued focus on your social life, ideals, and progressive ideas today and tomorrow, dear Sagittarius, as the Moon makes its monthly visit to your solar eleventh house. You readily support the people you care about, backing up their visions and dreams with practical solutions. It’s rather easy now to hone in and intuit others’ needs, which you can match with the right kind of support. With friends and loved ones, your timing is on mark today, and you’re more emotionally tuned in and invested in them. It’s a strong day for mapping out long-term plans rather than implementing them.

Capricorn

Capricorn

This can be a good day for applying intuition to work or practical affairs, dear Capricorn. You can be in the position to manage others, and you do it especially well right now. Your common sense is always strong, and in focus for others to notice more than usual now. You’re in a good position to fortify and build, even if major forward action is not yet advised. Older or more mature company may be favored for now. Tending to your responsibilities and getting them out of the way is most satisfying with the Moon at the top of your chart. However, this is also a good time to look for ways to better balance work and play.

Aquarius

Aquarius

The Moon has moved into your sector of spirit and life experience, dear Aquarius, and will transit here all of today and tomorrow. While this position tends to incline you to see the bigger picture, today’s Moon-Saturn connection helps to tame some of the more impractical sides of this transit. You can be especially focused on long-term goals now, and it’s a strong time for making preparations or laying down foundations rather than embarking on all-new adventures. You might also be looking at old friendships in a new light today.

Pisces

Pisces

The Moon continues to transit your intimacy and sharing sector all day today and tomorrow, dear Pisces, drawing your attention to the hidden elements of life, and of yourself. You are more interested in motivations and intentions than you are of what appears to be on the surface of things. While you may be worrying about income or resources this morning, a realistic mindset takes hold as the day advances. A Moon-Saturn connection helps you to find practical solutions to problems, particularly related to debts, shared income, and career matters. It’s also a good time for research – digging more deeply into a subject can be especially satisfying now.

The Details:

If you’re astrologically inclined and interested in the details of the Astrology of today, here are some of the factors considered in the forecasts (for the astrology of the week, see This Week in Astrology):

Date & Time: 17 May 2016 0:00 am
Event: Moon in Libra
Description: The Moon in Libra
This is a time for seeking out balance, harmony, and peace. It’s also a time to express emotions gracefully, diplomatically, and considerately. There could be a stronger focus on a relationship, partner, or potential partner. The ability to see both sides of a situation or story is a positive, but indecision can be a byproduct. This is a sociable, artistic Moon.

Date & Time: 17 May 2016 2:07 am
Event: Tr-Tr Mon Sqq Ven
Description: Transiting Moon SesquiSquare Transiting Venus
We can feel a little out of sorts. Our needs for pleasure, love, or entertainment may be at odds with our needs for comfort and familiarity, and we can be on the fence about what to do next. Overspending or overeating is possible.

Date & Time: 17 May 2016 1:34 pm
Event: Tr-Tr Mon Qnx Nep
Description: Transiting Moon Quincunx Transiting Neptune
We could be feeling out of sorts. We are especially sensitive to subtle planes, but may not be able to make sense of what we perceive. We could be impractical just for now.

Date & Time: 17 May 2016 2:14 pm
Event: Tr-Tr Mon Opp Cer
Description: Transiting Moon Opposition Transiting Ceres
We may feel unsupported or uncomfortable about supporting or nurturing others. Alternatively, we might be frustrated dealing with neediness in others. We could be insecure, fearful of rejection or separation. Positively, we might discover our own needs, fears, and comfort zones.

Date & Time: 17 May 2016 2:26 pm
Event: Tr-Tr Mon Sqq Sun
Description: Transiting Moon SesquiSquare Transiting Sun
What we feel and what we think we should do can be at odds with one another temporarily. There can be discontent or indecisiveness. We could be feeling out of sorts. Tensions will pass.

Date & Time: 17 May 2016 8:11 pm
Event: Tr-Tr Mon Qnx Mer
Description: Transiting Moon Quincunx Transiting Mercury
It can be difficult to be objective at this time. This can be a “foot in mouth” time. We should think before we speak, or there could be hurt feelings.

Date & Time: 17 May 2016 9:08 pm
Event: Tr-Tr Mon Sqq Ves
Description: Transiting Moon SesquiSquare Transiting Vesta
We can be a little stiff with our emotions, and we can be distracted from our work or focus. There can be difficulty expressing tenderness, concern, or care.

Date & Time: 17 May 2016 10:42 am
Event: Tr-Tr Sun SSq Cer
Description: Transiting Sun SemiSquare Transiting Ceres
It can be difficult to find nourishment right now, as we can be at odds with one another in terms of what we need and crave.

EARTH STRONG
We are especially in touch with the physical world. We consider what we’ve learned and experienced in the past in order to make the most of the present. We can be cautious, practical, and possibly unimaginative. We are deliberate and can pace ourselves well. We need hands-on experience and are not impressed with theory as much as we are with results. Routines are tolerable and comforting.
WATER WEAK
There may be some insensitivity or lack of empathy now. We may be out of touch with what we’re feeling or with our emotional needs. We may be tougher than usual now, and more inclined to follow mental or practical considerations than we are to listen to our intuition.

BALANCE OF MODES

The modes are balanced.

LUNAR PHASE: FIRST QUARTER
Moon from 90 to 135 degrees ahead of the Sun.
We are motivated to take action, perhaps due to a clash, conflict, or stress, as we are more aware of problems and differences now. Plans are beginning to take off or turn a corner. We should watch for pushing too hard.

The following aspects (major only) and positions are at noon (EDT) on May 17th:

Note that when an aspect is applying, it has not yet happened but is within orb – it’s pending. When an aspect is separating, it has already happened/perfected and is moving away from the aspect. Depending on the speed of the planet/body involved, the aspect will have perfected, or will perfect, in a matter of hours (often the case with the Moon), days, months, and possibly years in the case of the very slow-moving outer planets and bodies.

Note that the Moon moves at a rate of approximately one degree every 2 hours, so that if an aspect involving is applying and has an orb of 5 degrees, the aspect will perfect (be exact) in about 10 hours. If the Moon is separating from an aspect with an orb of 2 degrees, it has already formed said aspect approximately 4 hours ago (since the following are positions at noon today, then it would have occurred at about 8 AM today).

**I suggest paying close attention to applying aspects. The energy of the aspect builds as it gets closer to exact. Once an aspect involving inner planets has happened, it’s over. Separating aspects are good to know for context, but in terms of energy that is with us today, applying aspects are most important. (This is the case for daily astrology influences involving inner planets, which pass quickly, and not natal astrology aspects, which are with us for a lifetime).

THE MOON

THE MOON IN LIBRA
We are focused on our relationships, and finding balance, peace, and harmony in our personal environment under this influence.

ASPECTS OF THE MOON
SEXTILE SATURN Orb 3°15′ Applying
We are more able to find a balance between our own emotional needs and our responsibilities. We are more tolerant, deliberate, and resolute.

QUINCUNX NEPTUNE Orb 0°46′ Applying
We could be feeling out of sorts. We are especially sensitive to subtle planes, but may not be able to make sense of what we perceive. We could be impractical just for now.

SQUARE PLUTO Orb 6°12′ Applying
Unacknowledged feelings can emerge in possibly disruptive ways. We may be acting in compulsive or possessive ways now.

THE SUN

THE SUN IN TAURUS
You are a reliable and solid individual. You have a strong need for stable routine and security. You can be stubborn. Others can rely on your down-to-earth nature.

28TH DEGREE OF TAURUS
Part of Body: Deltoid muscle and main neck muscles
Sabian Symbol: A mature woman reawakened to romance.

ASPECTS OF THE SUN
CONJUNCTION VENUS Orb 5°27′ Applying
We take pride in our ability to relate well with others or to smooth over differences now. Graciousness, diplomacy, charm, and some superficiality are themes. This is a good period for social affairs, pleasure, amusement, and romance, all things considered.

OPPOSITION MARS Orb 6°15′ Applying
You find that your sense of identity is constantly being challenged. As a young child parent figures opposed you and you fought back. Now as an adult the battle continues with other authority figures. You need to learn the difference between assertion and aggression.

SEXTILE CHIRON Orb 2°38′ Separating
You will be able to help others with your ability to understand their pain.

MERCURY

MERCURY IN TAURUS
You place importance on traditional knowledge. You learn in a slow, methodical and hands-on manner. You stick to old ideas and may fear having to learn anything new.

16TH DEGREE OF TAURUS
Part of Body: Carotid arteries
Sabian Symbol: An old man attempting vainly to reveal the mysteries.

ASPECTS OF MERCURY
CONJUNCTION VENUS Orb 6°30′ Separating
We are more agreeable, sociable, and focused on balance and harmony. Conversations flow nicely.

QUINCUNX SATURN Orb 0°53′ Applying
Delays, uncertainty, or second-guessing ideas and decisions can slow us down. Adjustments or reassessments may need to be made now, particularly related to important and realistic details that need our attention. Communications may miss the mark.

SEXTILE NEPTUNE Orb 3°22′ Applying
Our words and thoughts can be more imaginative and colorful, subtle or creative. We can experience a sense of knowing and understanding with minimal explanation or instruction. Intuition is highlighted or awakened.

TRINE PLUTO Orb 2°04′ Separating
This is a good time for serious and determined study and investigation. We are drawn to looking for truths and to unexplored topics and ideas.

VENUS

VENUS IN TAURUS
For you romance and reliability go hand in hand. You approach relationships slowly and steadily, looking for someone who will prove solid and secure. You enjoy sensuality, and are reliable with finances.

ASPECTS OF VENUS
TRINE PLUTO Orb 4°26′ Separating
We’re a better judge of value right now — who and what are important to us. We might see one another, and our relationships, in a different light. We could reconnect with someone or improve an existing bond. We could be up for a challenge now. Increased insight in relationships, with money, and in business.

JUPITER IN VIRGO
You have a strong desire to be of service, and high religious or spiritual ideals. You may also have an obsession with detailed perfection.

14TH DEGREE OF VIRGO
Part of Body: Cystic arteries
Sabian Symbol: A family tree.

ASPECTS OF JUPITER
SQUARE SATURN Orb 0°57′ Applying
We are faced with the need to temper our enthusiasm or to slow down to avoid overextending ourselves. This is a time for clarifying and editing projects and goals. We may need to cut back on something in order to grow in another area. Patience is required now.

OPPOSITION NEPTUNE Orb 1°31′ Separating
We may be misled easily under this influence–by others, or by our own unrealistic or inflated expectations. Routine seems to be particularly unsatisfying now, as we are inclined to want to find more meaning in what we’re doing.

TRINE PLUTO Orb 3°55′ Applying
You are enthusiastic about so many things, and have ambition to succeed. You naturally find yourself in leadership positions and react well to them.

CONJUNCTION THE NORTH NODE Orb 6°14′ Applying
Your current life challenge is to embrace adventure. You may find yourself in situations which inspire you to see the big picture. Inspiring others, possibly through preaching or teaching, may be part of your life’s destiny. Benevolent groups may also play a key role.

SATURN

SATURN IN SAGITTARIUS
Saturn in Sagittarius asks us to take on the responsibility of living according to our personal truths and principles, and to be loyal to these. This is a time for turning a critical eye to those beliefs and principles that don’t accurately reflect our authentic selves. (December 23, 2014 to June 14, 2015, then September 17, 2015 to December 20, 2017)

15TH DEGREE OF SAGITTARIUS
Part of Body: Right iliac vein
Sabian Symbol: The ground hog looking for its shadow.

ASPECTS OF SATURN
SQUARE NEPTUNE Orb 2°28′ Applying
Some feelings of disillusionment can come now as our dreams and ideals can be put to the test. Questioning our faith in our dreams can lead to lack of follow-through or wasteful activities and avoidance of responsibilities. Ideally, this crisis leads to a realignment of material goals and spiritual ideals as we assess what is truly meaningful to us.

URANUS

URANUS IN ARIES
The urge to start fresh, to break free from restrictive attitudes or circumstances, to totally redesign an area of our lives (or even our personalities), and to gain freedom through independence is strong during this cycle. (May 27, 2010 to August 13, 2010, then March 11th, 2011 to May 15, 2018, then November 6, 2018 to March 6, 2019).

23RD DEGREE OF ARIES
Part of Body: Muscles of mastication
Sabian Symbol: A woman in pastel colors carrying a heavy and valuable but Veiled load.

NEPTUNE

NEPTUNE IN PISCES
A long-term influence in which fantasy, imagination, compassion, and spirituality are in stronger focus. (April 4, 2011 to August 4, 2011, then February 3, 2012 to March 30, 2025, then October 22, 2025 to January 26, 2026)

12TH DEGREE OF PISCES
Part of Body: Plantar artery of right foot
Sabian Symbol: An examination of initiates.

ASPECTS OF NEPTUNE
CONJUNCTION THE SOUTH NODE Orb 7°45′ Applying
You have a tendency to daydream and live in a fantasy world, possibly even escaping into the world of drugs and depression. Your quest in this life is to put your creative talents to positive use.

PLUTO

PLUTO IN CAPRICORN
Tests of our boundaries; breaking down and rebuilding structures and rules. (From January 25, 2008 to June 14, 2008, then November 26, 2008 to March 23, 2023, then June 11, 2023 to January 20, 2024, then September 1, 2024 to November 19, 2024).

18TH DEGREE OF CAPRICORN
Part of Body: Ligaments of right knee
Sabian Symbol: The union jack flies from a new british destroyer.

CHIRON

CHIRON IN PISCES
Strong awareness of our own vulnerabilities and humanity stimulates compassion for others. (April 20 to July 20, 2010, then February 8, 2011 to April 17, 2018, then September 25, 2018 to February 18, 2019).

25TH DEGREE OF PISCES
Part of Body: Left distal tibio-fibular joint
Sabian Symbol: The purging of the priesthood.

VESTA

VESTA IN GEMINI
Networking and coordinating are two key factors in your work. You enjoy communicating and exchanging information, particularly at work. You have a tendency to avoid emotions, in favor of intellectual conversations. You may be a committed writer.

PALLAS IN PISCES
You have a meditative mind, the ability to merge in your mind with the universe. You desire to heal the world through words, and may be involved in some form of artistic expression.

5TH DEGREE OF PISCES
Part of Body: Right cuboid bone
Sabian Symbol: A church bazaar.

JUNO

JUNO IN SCORPIO
You want an intense and sexual relationship. You want your partner’s total attention and demand a high degree of sensuality.

3RD DEGREE OF SCORPIO
Part of Body: Prostate, uterus
Sabian Symbol: A house-raising.

CERES

CERES IN ARIES
You feel cared for when people are allowing you to be independent. You also believe that the best way of caring for others is to let them be themselves. You will suffer if you feel dominated or caged in.

13TH DEGREE OF ARIES
Part of Body: Ventricles of brain
Sabian Symbol: A bomb which failed to explode is now safely concealed.

THE SOUTH NODE

THE SOUTH NODE IN PISCES
This is a quest to become dedicated to the service of others. You will need to overcome the tendency to daydream and feel overwhelmed and to put your compassion and wisdom to practical use for humanity.

20TH DEGREE OF PISCES
Part of Body: Right fibula muscle
Sabian Symbol: A table set for an evening meal.